Loneliness
Chances are you have felt lonely.
Most of us do at some point. There are many different reasons for this and sometimes there’s no obvious case – it’s just how we feel!
It’s important to remember that lots of people experience similar feelings and that they can pass.
Understanding your reasons for feeling lonely can help you identify and manage these feelings.
There are things you can try that may help. Support is also available if you’re finding it hard to cope with stress, anxiety or depression.
Read our advice if you or someone you know is affected by loneliness.
Get involved with our #MakeMondayMatter movement by following our socials including Facebook and Instagram. Tell us how you are getting on. #LessLonely.
Who is affected by loneliness?
Anyone of any age can be affected by loneliness.
Older people are especially vulnerable to social isolation while young people aged 16 to 34 are one of the most at-risk groups for experiencing loneliness.
Loneliness is often linked with things that could prevent you spending time with other people, such as:
- living or working alone
- retirement
- illness or disability
- bereavement (losing someone or something)
- moving to a new area, job, school or university
- social anxiety (social phobia)
- staying at home to look after a new baby
- caring full-time for someone you live with
But remember
You don’t have to be on your own all the time to feel lonely. You can experience loneliness:
- whether you are single or in a relationship
- if your are spending time with friends or family
- whether you live in a city or a rural area
- when you are in a room with lots of people you know
You may feel lonely occasionally, such as on particular days, dates or times of the year. Chronic loneliness is when you feel lonely all the time.
Signs or symptoms of loneliness
As well as feeling isolated, loneliness can have physical symptoms and can affect your behaviour.
This could include:
- getting nervous about or avoiding going to social events
- change your daily routines, like stop cooking for yourself, caring about your appearance or getting up early
- find it difficult to get to sleep or stay asleep
If loneliness is very severe or lasts a long time, it might increase the risk of some physical conditions such as dementia and mental health conditions such as stress, anxiety, low mood or depression.
Try not to use alcohol, cigarettes, gambling or drugs to relieve loneliness; these can all contribute to poor mental health.
Tips for dealing with loneliness
Help and support
NHS Every Mind Matters has lots advice on dealing with loneliness.
If you need more support, you can get free talking therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) on the NHS.
You can refer yourself directly to a talking therapies service without a referral from a GP.
Find an NHS talking therapies service.
See a GP if:
- you’re struggling to cope with stress, anxiety or a low mood
- you’ve had a low mood for more than 2 weeks
- things you’re trying yourself are not helping
- you would prefer to get a referral from a GP
Call NHS 111 or ask for an urgent GP appointment if:
- you need help urgently, but it’s not an emergency
You can also use the British Sign Language (BSL) NHS 111 service or call 18001 111 using the Relay UK app or a textphone.
Call 999 or go to A&E now if:
- you or someone you know needs immediate help
- you have seriously harmed yourself – for example, by taking a drug overdose
Loneliness at Christmas
Feelings of loneliness can feel more intense during the festive season.
You might be alone on Christmas for different reasons, such as the death of a loved one, living far from relatives or because of social isolation.
If you have social anxiety disorder (SAD) and don’t have close relationships with family or friends, loneliness at Christmas can be particularly hard.
Tips for dealing with loneliness at Christmas
Loneliness at university
Going to university is an exciting time for many people. For other people, it can bring about feelings of loneliness or isolation.
These feelings are completely normal. Your college or university may offer wellbeing or mental health support. Student services or the students’ union (or other student body) can give you information about what’s available – make sure you check the university or college website too.
Student Space
Student Space is a mental health and wellbeing platform designed to bridge any gaps in support for students.
It also has tips and advice on friendships and social life.